How do I use a PDA barcode scanner (like the Allegro CX) with Labview 8.5

[gdecker]

I'm investigating the possibility of using a rugged PDA like the Allegro CX to do a barcode read so I can check part numbers against a bill of materials.  I'm currently using labview 8.5.

I haven't been able to find any drivers/vis for any windows portable applications.  Could anyone point me in the right direction to find some examples and/or drivers?

Regards

[gdecker]

Nobody's done this?

[Coq_Rouge]

It looks like that thing is running windows CE. Hence you can not just use standard  Labview to write program for it. Labview do have something named touch-panel module. Touch panel module do have some support for windows CE. Your unit is running on a Intel ® XScale® processor. I do not know if the touch panel module support this CPU.

You should also be aware that NI penalize you VERY hard if you do not use NI touch panel units. 1 Touch Panel Deployment License (for Non-NI Devices) Probably cost more than Allegro CX unit. They have presented some mumbo jumbo and I quote

is intended to cover the support costs we incur when our customers use third party touch panels with Windows CE or Windows XP Embedded. It is also intended to encourage our customers to clearly investigate the potential development challenges I have seen others encounter when using third party touch panels.

But I think this is pure business. They get some OEM units. Slap a NI sticker on them. And sell them with a good profit. But if you choose a non NI unit. They will loose this profit. But one thing is somewhat correct. The potential development challenges you encounter when using third party touch panels. May give you problems. And you may end up in a quagmire situation.

I suggest you read the  Allegro CX manual. Than contact NI to hear what they say. Perhaps you can download and trail the development software needed.